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What is IOSH?

If you’ve ever asked this, don’t worry, you’re far from alone. Indeed, on average ‘what is IOSH?’ is entered into Google search engines over 90,000 times each month. So, without further ado, this post will answer ‘what is IOSH?’ before moving on to address the frequently asked questions: ‘What is IOSH Managing Safely?’ and ‘What is IOSH training?’

What is IOSH?

IOSH stands for the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health. Based in the UK, but with members around the globe, it’s a not-for-profit organisation.

It is also the Chartered body for health and safety professionals; aiming to raise standards and regulate the profession. Its work includes developing and promoting a code of conduct, as well as developing and accrediting safety training courses.

If you’re considering a career in health and safety, you’ll no doubt want to consider IOSH Membership. There are six categories, culminating in Chartered Status (CMIOSH/ FIOSH), which is reserved for members who meet the highest standards of competence.

The six IOSH membership categories are:

Affiliate Member

Associate Member

Technician Member

Graduate Member

Chartered Member

Chartered Fellow

The info graphic on our recent ‘What is NEBOSH?’ post illustrates the relationship between NEBOSH training courses, and IOSH Membership categories so if you’ve done any NEBOSH training to date it’s worth taking a look to see what you’re eligible for.

What is IOSH training?

IOSH has developed the syllabus for some very well known health and safety training courses, as well as some more niche courses such as IOSH Managing Safely in Aviation, or IOSH Workplacement Assessors for those in certain job roles or sectors. Indeed, there’s an IOSH health and safety training course suitable for almost every level, in every sector and any organisation. Every year, around 100,000 employees gain an IOSH qualification.

Courses are delivered by licensed training providers, such as RoSPA, who offer a portfolio of IOSH courses, rather than by IOSH itself.

What is IOSH Managing Safely?

IOSH Managing Safely is IOSH’s flagship course. It’s designed for managers and supervisors in any organisation or sector. It’s a pragmatic course, with a sharp business focus, which is held in high esteem by delegates and is delivered over three, four or five days at locations throughout the UK, or as an in-company option, or online for those overseas or who simply wish to learn from the comfort of their own desk.

IOSH are keen to encourage the next generation of health and safety professionals to come forward, so if you’re considering a career in this rewarding field, why not find out more?